Special Diets & Recipes

Special Diets: What Can I Eat?

Learn about special diets as well as healthy foods to meet your changing dietary needs as you age. You'll also find recipes to suit your diet.

By Kathleen Zelman, MPH, RD/LDWebMD Weight Loss Clinic - Feature

Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD

Making small changes to your diet or eating plan can be exactly what you need for good health and healthy aging. Many diseases and conditions, including allergies, and/or your family history, can require changes in your diet to keep you feeling well and in good health.

In many cases, a doctor will prescribe a modified diet, along with exercise suited to your condition. Sometimes, this diet therapy is nothing more than a good, nutritious diet balanced in carbohydrates, proteins and fats, or one that requires frequent minimeals. Most special diets can be just as tasty and easy to follow as traditional eating plans.

Nutrients in foods are nature's secret weapons for good health. If you have any of these conditions, or would like to change your diet to improve your health, review the dietary recommendations to ensure you get all the nutrients you need: